Bruce Landeck arrived in SaddleBrooke five years ago as a fit 73-year-old. He joined the SaddleBrooke Hiking Club to find like-minded people who loved to hike in the desert and who enjoyed being in nature. It was not long before the chief hiking guide approached Bruce to ask if he would become a guide for the Club. Landeck agreed, saying that he would do it for five years. During those years, he also served as club Vice-President and President.
Fast forward to Tuesday, December 31, 2024, and Landeck scheduled his final hike as a guide for the club. Ten of his friends and fellow hikers joined him, eager to be a part of his final guide effort.
The day was cool—a perfect hiking day that we get to experience in the winter here in the Sonoran Desert. The hike was one of Landeck’s favorites in Sabino Canyon National Recreation area, where he strings together the tracks of Esperero Canyon, Rattlesnake and Bluff Trails in a loop. The trek is an easy 4.6 miles with a 356-foot elevation gain on the Esperero Canyon trail.
Following the climbing portion, hikers were rewarded with stunning views up the canyon. Further along the trail, the group encountered five deer who, through their leisurely movements, reminded us that we are the visitors in this park. The Esperero Trail meets the Rattlesnake Trail off to the right and winds down the incline gradually. There is a short portion on the paved road leading to the Bluff Trail. On the Bluff Trail, one looks down on the Cottonwoods along the riverbank, which are beautiful in the fall. Then they came upon the dam, which was bone dry, an unusual sight.
Returning to the Visitors Center in good spirits, the hikers shared stories and friendly jabs. They also had one final thank you for Landeck—his favorite cake—a German chocolate cake with pecan coconut frosting.
Thank you, Bruce Landeck, for your leadership and friendship. It means the world to the SaddleBrooke Hiking Club.
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